Buzz Lightyear in Outer Space?

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

03 Jun 2008 03:28 PM

Buzz Lightyear is back in space. Saturday afternoon around 5 p.m. ET, the Space Shuttle Discovery launched from the Kennedy Space Center with Buzz Lightyear onboard. The mission labeled STS-124 with Buzz on board is featured as part of the kickoff to "Toys in Space" the Space Ranger Education series in conjunction with NASA.

This educational program encourages the aspirations of millions of children who dream of one day walking among the stars. The series promotes studies in technology, math and science. These are all subjects vital to space travel as well as U.S. technological leadership.

Buzz's launch back to space will include missions such as zero gravity space walks and more for the earthbound Space Rangers to enjoy. He will introduce the elements of space to science and math classrooms. Buzz's voyage also coincides with Toy Story Mania's launch at Disney World in May. Disneyland's version is scheduled to launch in June.

Dr. Joyce Winterton, NASA's assistant administrator for Education believes in the mission.

NASA is excited to help students understand the science and engineering currently underway on the International Space Station. The educational games and resources from this partnership will allow students to explore the science and math behind space exploration with a beloved character.

Educators

Educators will be able to download classroom curriculum as well as educational games for their classrooms this summer and for next Fall. There are interactive lessons that employ problem solving and critical thinking. You can check out the program on NASA's website where Buzz's mission will be chronicled.

The Space Ranger Education Series will give teachers an opportunity to incorporate a fun and engaging moment into the classroom with a character that children really love. We're pleased to join NASA in creating a program that can help keep kids excited about math and science. - Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

Are you interested in following Buzz's exploits in space?

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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